|
Rain Rain Go Away |
Posted by Mantis
2010-3-8 1:14 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
Not too bad weather wise today but kinda over the constant rain.
Last week was ok. Not too busy at work but enough to keep me entertained.
Tuesday night i hung out at work an extra hour then headed down road to the Milton Coffee Club and played poker. Came 2nd (out of 30) after nearly going out a heap of times so happy with that. Will go again each week from now on i think.
Wednesday at bowling we were on the end lanes and none of us were getting any spin from the ball. Something must be wrong with those lanes as others have said same thing. We ended up only winning 1 game.
Friday night Melanie came over and we headed into valley for some drinks with Shez/Lui/Lachlan/Mark and some visitors from UK. Stayed a few hours and got some NY slice pizza. Melanie had to work Saturday so we headed home earlyish.
Saturday i went over to parents around lunchtime. Stopped in at Brendan's to grab back spare key he borrowed at my party. Grabbed groceries on way home.
Saturday night i got a cab over to the Pineapple Hotel for Catheryn's 30th drinks. Didn't know most people there except David. Soon after i got there Lee-rae and her bf arrived, and so did Erin and her husband. Bit later Dave and Audrey came. Ended up talking to Dave and Michael (Lee-rae's bf) for a while which was nice. Had not seen most of them in years. Some i had not seen in like 7 years. Got a ride home with Davd/Audrey (they didn't stay late as they have a new born baby).
Sunday i slept in and then just relaxed all day.
Been a busy-ish day so far but i am not sure how busy the week will be. Probably not much. Got work drinks on Friday so thats nice.
Anyways, back to work. |
|
|
Milton Poker |
Posted by Mantis
2010-3-2 10:40 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
Woo. Poker!
Got an SMS a few days ago saying a new venue at Coffee Club Milton was starting with APL Poker. Thought i'd just hangout at work for an hour then head over.
It's been over a year since the last place i played stopped running it and have been meaning to find somewhere new. This is pretty handy and best day for it.
There were about 30 there at start of night and i wasn't doing that great but hanging in. Got down to about 15 and i was almost out ($1000 left, the big blind). Managed to come back a bit and hold in and made it to the final table of 10. Didn't have many chips compared to others but a heap went out early and 1 guy had pretty much all the chips. Got a few lucky hands and made it to top 2. Got a few more lucky hands and we traded chips for a bit with me being in lead a few times. Eventually it went his way and i came 2nd. Not bad.
Will be good to keep at it each week and get better. |
|
|
My 30th Birthday |
Posted by Mantis
2010-3-1 11:46 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
This last week has flown and been a bit busy (but in a good way).
Monday i baked 2 cakes. 1 big vanilla one (with black food color) and 1 smaller vanilla (with red food color). Burnt the big one a bit but not too bad.
Melanie came over Tuesday night and we had chinese for dinner. She gave me a cool birthday present of a dragon (made of screws/bolts/etc.) and a NZ shirt. We also cut up and iced the cake for me to take to work. Came out ok. This year i did the ConnX logo which is the main product we develop here. Choose it cause it looked fun to make.
Wednesday was my 30th birthday. Had to work but thats ok. Brought in my cake (in 3 containers in a beer carton). Had it at 10:30 and everyone loved the look of it (and the taste). Amanda picked me up from work at 4:15ish so i got to leave early and got a ride home. Yay.
Bowling Wednesday night went okish. I didn't do that great and averaged about 122 (my average is 144 currently). But we won all 3 games anyways and probably moved back into 1st place.
Friday we had a bit of an exam here in morning to see how much everyone knows of ConnX. I probably did badly but the result does not effect anything so i will see what i need to learn more about. After that we got pizza for lunch which was cool. Friday night i had downloaded some new moves so watched 2 of them.
Saturday i went over to DFO with my sister around 11 and we shopped for a few hours. I got some new shirts (2 really bright ones, 1 of which i got for my party). She also got a new top. Got back to my place around 3pm and Melanie came over to get ready. Around 5:30 Emma came over to give us a ride to the Fox Hotel for party. She is a bit sick at the moment so wasn't gunna drink much.
Got to Fox Hotel and went up to roof and checked into our sectioned off area. Was a nice area with heaps of room/seats and a bar right there. People turned up randomly over the the enxt hour or so, and then some more came later. Ended up having about 20-25 people which is far less than i thought would come but the main people were there. Many could not make it due to there being a few other big things on that night. Oh well.
We all had good fun and most people started heading off around 11pm. My parents headed off and were going to drop Brendan home but they called a bit later to tell me their car club-lock was broken and they could not remove it. Brendan came back to party and the last of us headed off. Brendan got a ride with William/Warwick/Aaron back to Aarons for the night and i headed back to Emma's car with her, Melanie and Rita. Rita decided to head out to West End so headed off and the 3 of us went back to my place (via HJs). I was still pretty awake so could not get to sleep until closer to 5pm. Mum also called around 1:30am to say they had got a locksmith (who was at the Fox Hotel) to break the club-lock off (but cost $260) so they could drive home.
Slept in until 11-12 Sunday and then Mel headed off and Emma and i watched a movie then she headed home. Had a bit of a nap in afternoon and an early night so i'm not too tired today.
This wek might be ok. Not too busy at work. There is a new poker venue right near here tomorrow night so might work late and go check it out.
Ok, lunchtime. |
|
|
Family Weekend Away |
Posted by Mantis
2010-2-22 11:18 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
At work and a little tired/sore.
Last week at work was ok. 4 day week and kept busy. Did some work on Q2 website which was a good break.
Bowling Wednesday went badly. Averaged like 121 over the 3 games. We were not playing anyone cause there are 7 teams and we always do worse when there is nobody to play against. All 3 of us bowled bad but we still got 2 of the 4 points. We were tied in 1st place so we might have slipped down a spot or 2.
Thursday night i made my chocolate log. Made a big one for home and a smaller one for weekend.
Friday i had the day off work. Slept in a little bit then walked up road to pay my speeding ticket. Around lunchtime mum/dad/Megan arrived to pick me up. I then drove us in the Mazda up to Caloundra where we stayed at a caravan type place in Golden Beach. Was a nice little 2 bedroom unit. We went for a walk and got some lunch and a bit later we went for another walk along the beach. Ended up running into some old friends of parents and Megan and i left them to chat while we went and grabbed the car and drove to Coles for some meat. Then had a nice BBQ steak/salad/spud dinner. After that we had some of my chocolate log and played some Pictionary (dad and i beat mum and Megan).
Saturday we has some bacon/eggs for breaky and then went for a drive/walk around the various beaches for 1/2 the day. Was a hot day and i got a little burnt but not too bad. In the afternoon we relaxed and dad and i watched some V8s. For dinner we walked down to the local rowing club RSL and had a nice dinner.
Sunday we had pancakes for breaky and packed up the car. Went for a drive around streets looking at the houses and then went down to beach and did some kayaking. Magan wanted to try some different styles to see what she wants to buy. After 20mins my arms were dead and her and dad went out for a bit. We then found a petrol station and then headed home (with a stop for lunch at BP).
Last night i relaxed for a bit then Melanie came over and we cooked dinner and had some log and relaxed for evening.
This week might be ok. My birthday on Wednesday so will make a cake tonight. Next weekend is my big 30th party at the Fox Hotel. Hopefully heaps come and it's a good night.
Ok, time for lunch and then more work. |
|
|
Not much to report |
Posted by Mantis
2010-2-15 11:00 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Had a pretty relaxing weekend. Away next weekend and party the weekend after so was nice.
Last week was ok with work. Pretty quiet. Did some website work and started the work i will be doing for next few weeks.
Wednesday i had bowling and i did pretty well. 181, 159, 185. So 175 average.
As i said, not much to report. Mostly just relaxing at night/weekend watching TV/movies and doing my puzzle. I finished the 2nd 500 piece one but found a piece was missing. Annoying. Doing a 1000 piece one now and about 1/3 of the way through already.
Saturday night i ended up going to bed around 4am so i slept in a bit Sunday. Went grocery shopping and relaxed Sunday.
Last night at about 10-11pm i was thinking about where my stuff would go if i died suddenly. My legal Will says it all goes to parents but i was thinking more of what my friends might like and my parents would not want. Things like all my books and stuff. So i started writing up a document listing out all the main things and my thoughts and who i think should have them. Also wrote some random thoughts on funeral/service as well as a big list of songs that could be used. I know it sounds a bit weird (and it took me until 1am to finish) but it was on my mind and now it's not. :)
Not as tired as i thought i'd be. Maybe will be later. This morning has been ok. Going pretty fast. My "Bucky Balls" arrived. They are tiny magnetic balls you can make shapes of. Plan to have them on coffee table to play with when watching TV.
This week should be ok. Got Friday off and heading up coast with family for weekend. Looking forward to that.
Anyways, might have lunch soon. And then i guess back into work.
|
|
|
Relaxing Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2010-2-8 12:20 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
Last week was ok with work. Bit slow but i was doing a lot on new Website so thats ok.
Tuesday night Melanie came over and hungout. I made dinner and she made dessert (yummy scone type things covered in golden syrup sauce).
Wednesday night was bowling and i did okish. About 130 average.
Friday at about 4pm we headed down to local pub for some work drinks to celebrate finishing off latest version of ConnX. Left there around 6pm.
Saturday i relaxed for a bit and then headed out and did some shopping. Headed to a BBQ at Goodna around 4pm and left there around 8-9pm. Was a nice evening.
Sunday i pretty much relaxed all day then Emma came over for dinner and hungout.
Today has been busy but thats good. Having a bit of a late lunch in a minute so rather hungry.
This week will be pretty relaxed i think. |
|
|
Speedy Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2010-2-1 10:57 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Time flies when you are having fun.... except you get a speeding ticket.
Last week at work was ok, kinda dull as we didn't have a lot of work sorted to actually do yet. Started doing more on our new website.
Tuesday was Australia Day so i did some stuff at home and then went to a BBQ at Digi's new place at Moorooka. It's a nice place with plenty of renovation potential. Something similar to what i want (as is his black dual-cab Hilux). Headed off 5ish and Melanie (a new friend of mine) came over.
Was feeling a bit off and didn't sleep much Tuesday night so i took Wednesday off work and slept in 1/2 the day.
Wednesday night was first week back at the yearly bowling league. Got there early for the meeting we have at start of year to sort rules and who is doing what. Looks like we have 8 teams this year instead of the 6 last year so thats good. I bowled well to with 151, 152, 155 so i am nicely consistant. Hope that lasts.
Friday night i finished Night of the Triffids (re-read Day of the Triffids then Night of the Triffids again) and as i was going to sleep i had a good idea for a 3rd book. So wrote down my thoughts and typed it up in morning. Could be an interesting activity to try and write a book so will see how i go.
Saturday i needed to do a bunch of things out and at home. Drove into city to quickly go to a shop and managed to get a speeding ticket. 56 in a 40 zone in front of the Botanical Gardens. I thought it was 50 in city but i don't drive in much so i guess it changed. $200 fine and not sure of points (not that it matters, i have not had any tickets in like 5-6 years). After that i went to Westend and then grabbed groceries on way home. Spent the afternoon doing a heap of stuff around home.
Melanie came over again Saturday night and we hungout and watched a movie. Didn't end up getting to sleep until like 2-3am.
Slept in a bit and then relaxed for afternoon. Watched series finale of Dollhouse which was nice. Sucks that it's finished.
Created a invite and setup a Facebook event for my 30th birthday party on the 27th so hopefully lots of people will be able to come.
Work this week will be ok. Probably a bit dull again. I believe we have drinks Friday afternoon so thats nice.
Ok, better get back to work i guess. And maybe lunch soon. |
|
|
Australia Day Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2010-1-25 10:56 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Here we are for another week. At least this week is broken up a bit with tomorrow off.
Last week was ok. Was kinda ther last week of the work we have been doing for a year or more. This wee we start on a new version (kinda) with a few medium sized changes. Wish we were starting a new big version with big development but oh well, soon hopefully.
At bowling on Wednesday i didn't do that well, just slightly under my average. Was the last week of the summer league so this week we start back with out yearly league.
Thursday morning i wokeup feeling a bit fluey. Drank craploads of water all day and took it easy at night. Seemed to work and Friday i woke up feeling fine.
Saturday was spent running around shops. Got some shorts for my travelling as well as some other stuff. Amanda came over for a bit in afternoon.
Saturday night Emma came over after her day volunteering at Bookfest (Lifeline yearly 2nd hand book sale) and we got pizza and watched tv for the evening.
Sunday i drove up Mt Nebo for the Mini Owners Club Australia Day BBQ. Was a ncie drive and an ok BBQ.
In afternoon Emma (and a friend) picked me up and we went to Bookfest. It was the last day so there was not much left but it was all cheap. Walked around for a few hours and i picked up about 7 books and 7 jigsaw puzzles (5 1000 piece and 2 500 piece). Ended up costing me only $21 for everything. The books i got were just random small paperbacks that i will take on trip and not have to worry about losing or damaging them. After Bookfest the 3 of us grabbed a burger in West End then they dropped me home.
Tomorrow is Australia Day so we have the day off. I'm probably just gunna go to a BBQ around 1pm and relax rest of day.
Today is a bit quiet because a few people took the day off for a 4 day weekend.
Anyways, time for some work and maybe lunch. |
|
|
Busy Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2010-1-18 10:56 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Bit tired but not too bad. Heaps to do this week so hopefully it goes fast.
Last week was ok. the days seemed long and i got tired more easily. Main problem was i was still waking up at like 5:30am from camping week. Eventually adjusted back and last few days were better.
Bowling on Wednesday was good. Leagues started back up (ours starts in a week or so) so they oiled the lanes nicely. Instead of averaging 120 like i have done for last few weeks with crappy lane oil, i averaged about 150. Think i will do well this year in league.
Thursday Amanda and Kris dropped off a bed, a fridge and a washing machine to store in garage for a few weeks. Means i get a 2nd fridge for a bit which is good for drinks.
Friday i headed to my sisters (getting HJs on way) and spent the evening with Meavy. Watched the Top Gear Polar Special again.
Saturday i slept in a little bit and then headed home. Got changed then walked into valley and checked out the camping/hiking stores. Ended up getting a 75L solid decent bag from Mountain Designs. Was $450 but is great wuality and will last me ages. Also got some good walking shoes (that also look ok for going out at night). Took that stuff home and headed back to sisters. Tried checking out a store on way but it had moved. Spent the afternoon relaxing with Meavy and watching a movie and some tv.
Headed home again around 7pm (grabbed HJs again) and got ready to go out. Warwick drove over and i ordered a cab. Grabbed a beer each but we had barely had 1 sip before taxi arrived. Quicky drank beer and headed into city to Casino. Grabebd another beer or 2 (while being chatted to by some old drunk guy) and then the others arrived. Found a nice couchy area and chatetd and drank for a few hours. We were there for Emma's (Aaron's GF) 21st (which was during week) and i was ok. My friend Emma was in city with her brother so she came over to Casino and joined us for a bit. The rest decided to head into valley but Warwick and i didn't want to do that and had to be up in morning anyways. So we headed back to pub where Emma's brother way and had a drink there for a bit. Then Emma dropped Warwick and i at my place.
Sunday i was up around 8:30am and slightly hungover. Warwick had already headed home to get ready. Got picked up by some friends around 9:30am and headed to a place near The Glen. Everyone else arrived and we headed down coast in 3 cars (stopping for some stuff on way). Hit a bit of traffic on way down due to Big Day Out being on but we went around that area and wasn't too bad. Met up with more people and had a BBQ at The Spit (near Seaworld). Warwick had brough some of the leftover camping sausages so we cooked them up. They were edible but a bit chewy. Then headed down to beach and hungout there and relaxed for afternoon. I mostly sunbaked as i wasn't into swimming. Also built a sand castle with Melanie which was fun.
Headed off around 5pm and stopped for icecream on way back. Got dropped home around 7pm and watched a double first ep of a show i grabbed recently. Was ok but i was tired. Had an early night so i wokeup not too tired.
Today work has been ok so far. As i said, heaps to do as this week is really last week of work on ConnX 4.2 before we do an Early Release.
Didn't get a chance to do much on weekend so will need to go grocery shopping when i get home. Tonight will be a night of organsing and catching up.
Ok, better get back to it. |
|
|
Back at Work |
Posted by Mantis
2010-1-11 12:51 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
Not much to say. Last week was Fraser Island camping trip and the full daily diary is in the previous post.
Back at work for a new year now. Still doing last few big fixes for ConnX 4.2 but hopefully in next few weeks we can start new development.
Been a busy morning catching up with emails and stuff.
Think this week will be pretty busy but thats ok.
On Friday i will be heading to my sisters to look after her kitten all weekend. Might do some shopping during day too.
Ok, back to work. |
|
|
Fraser Island Camping Trip |
Posted by Mantis
2010-1-11 12:49 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
1/1/2010 - Friday
Headed over to parents around lunchtime and started sorting gear.
Went grocery shopping with Warwick and packed his new trailer
2/1/2010 - Saturday
Got away early at 6am when Warwick, Lloyd (Warwicks brother) and Elliot (brothers son) picked me up in Warwicks 4WD and Lloyd's 4WD ute
Met up with Shawn's 4WD at Aarons with him, Shez, Rachel in it. Put David in Shawn's 4WD and Aaron/Emma in Warwicks
Stopped in at Maccas for breakfast
Stopped in at Rainbow Beach for lunch (and to wait for tide to go out a bit)
Let down tyres and jumped on the barge with 3 4WDs
On way to campsite we had to stop because Shawn's 4WD was overheating – 30min beer break
Got to Central Station and found 2 good campsites to setup on
Ranger Bob arrived to welcome us and gave everyone a talk about Dingo safety (mainly directed at Elliot)
3/1/2010 - Sunday
Headed to Eurong (Short stop because Shawn was overheating again)
Went down to beach and had a swim/relax
Headed up beach but missed our turnoff and went too far (only a 10min delay)
Headed inland to Lake Mckenzie but got a bit lost (also had to stop again for overheating)
On the way we helped out a stuck X-Trail
Got to Lake Mckenzie (after a 7 hour drive) and had a nice long swim in the beautiful waters
Headed back to Camp (which only took 45minutes)
At about midnight (after we all went to bed) there was some heavy rain so we had to put up an emergency 2nd tarp at 2nd campsite and dig some trenches
4/1/2010 - Monday
Up early for a long day (was a bit overcast and drizling but ok)
Headed to Eurong (Emma and Aaron stayed at camp)
Raced tide up beach to Happy Valley
Had breakfast at Happy Valley (Fraser Feast)
Hung out on the beach for a bit
Went to Eli Creek to wait for tide (waded through water in 4WDs when it was down enough)
Stopped at ship wreck (Shawn blew a thermal fan fuse from water wading so swapped that)
Went to Indian Point and walk to top (some guy had caught a huge fish which was interesting)
Headed back at 2:30pm
Got some ice at Eurong
Checked out a snake at camp (python that had eaten 3 rats)
Had a late night drinking and talking
5/1/2010 - Tuesday
Headed to Eurong where Lloyd/Elliot tried to leave but tide was too high
2 4WDs headed off to Lakes while Shawns 4wd did some washing and Shawn did some work remotely
Got to Lake Birrabeen with it's shallow water that goes out a while before drops off
Lloyd/Elliot headed off around 12:30 and we waited for Shawn's 4WD (they arrived around 2pm)
Stopped briefly at a 2nd Lake but it wasn't that nice
Skipped 3rd lake and headed back to Eurong then camp
6/1/2010 - Wednesday
Had pancakes for breakfast and headed to Eurong (there was a dingo on road that we followed for a bit)
Headed back to Eli Creek where we walked up/down creek
Headed to Champagne Pools for a dip
Shawn managed to semi-break his steering (not too bad but would mean no more rough driving for him)
Warwicks 4wd headed to Waddy Point to bring back some lunch (chicken sandwiches). Also saw a dead whale and asked a local
mechanic (who was mowing the landing strip) for thoughts on steering issue
Helped an English guy change flat tyre back at Champagne Pools
Waited on beach for tide to go out more
Went back to Eurong (at a slow pace) and washed Warwicks 4WD
Left Shawn's 4WD at Eurong and we checked out the picnic area at Central Station
Met up with other 4WD back at camp and Warwick and i re-arranged the eskies (dry ice had melted) and went on an ice run to Eurong
Checked out the snake that was still there
Emma made some nice Apple/Pear Crumple for dessert (with crushed Anzac biscuits on top)
Had some more heavy rain that night
7/1/2010 - Thursday
Slept in a bit with rain
Shawn made some awesome apple filled pancakes (with flipping and everything)
Most did some reading/relaxing for a bit
Warwick's 4WD headed to Eurong (with him, Shez and Shawn)
That night we did some big drinking/talking
Claire (Hot Canadian backpacker) joined us for a few drinks (in her bikini and soaked from rain)
Ranger Bob also joined us for a drink later
8/1/2010 - Friday
At about 8am Shawn/Rachel/Shez/Emma headed off (decided to go a day early cause it was a nice day and wanted to take it slow with 4WDs steering issues)
Warwick and I followed them and got ice at Eurong
Had some breakfast back at campsite
Warwick, Aaron and David went fishing (but didn't do well because of wrong bait) and i tidied/organised camp and did some reading (luckily it was a nice sunny day)
Packed up Aarons tent/site ebcause there was only 4 of us there and incase it rained
9/1/2010 - Saturday
Had Breakfast and packed up rest of tents/site (was a nice sunny day again so everything was dry luckily)
Left Eurong at about 11:30am and drove down to barge
Stopped in at a car wash at Rainbow Beach
Also stopped in at Maccas/KFC for lunch (and to fix trailer tarp that ripped a bit)
Warwick and I droped off Aaron/David at Aarons
Warwick dropped me and gear at my parents where i did some washing up and put camping stuff back in the roof
I got home around 7pm
Interesting Notes
We drunk 7 cartons of beer (148 beers) and that was mainly done by me, Warwick and Lloyd
After hearing the Bloodhound Gang song earlier in week everyone was singing a modifed version of "Foxtrot Unicorn Cicarda Kiwi"
Elliot kept calling the Cicardas Avacardos
I took 2 small walkie-talkies and Warwick had a car one and Shawn had a handheld and it worked out great being able to talk between 4WDs
Countless "your mum" jokes were made all week (especially over walkie-talkies) |
|
|
2010 Begins |
Posted by Mantis
2010-1-1 9:55 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Well here we are again, a new year and a new decade.
I won't ramble on too much as i am packing for camping and have heaps to do still.
2009 was ok, nothing too exciting but nothing bad either.
I had no debt at the start of the year and spent most of it saving for my trip. Then at the end i spent it all on trip and now i am back to no debt (well, credit card is a bit full but will fix that in 10 days) and no savings. I should be able to save for 6months before trip so that will be good.
Still in same house and still have same flatmate. Don' see it changing anytime soon.
Turn 30 this year, somehow seems important so i plan to do a big party somewhere.
First year of being single the whole year. Been a little while but was ok. Hopefully this year might be a change from that as i miss having someone close. Amanda and i are still close friends which is great and i recently started hanging out with another friend who i have not seen much of in a few years.
Work last year wasn't that exciting. Was a year of mainly bug fixes and small changes. I am hopeful that 2010 will be a year of big development.
My mini is still going strong and catering for my needs.
My family and friends are all healthy and happy so that makes me happy.
My hopes for 2010 are that i will be able to see more of the world and experience new things. And hopefully grow as a person. I have my 2 month Europe/UK trip in August/September which will be awesome. I am also heading off to Fraser Island for a week tomorrow which will be nice and relaxing. Might try and fit a few more smaller trips in this year too.
Ok, better get back to packing. |
|
|
Christmas |
Posted by Mantis
2009-12-29 10:08 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Back at work after 4 days off. Not really in mood to work but heaps to do.
Last week was ok. Kinda relaxed. Tuesday night i made 2 decent sized chocolate logs. 1 for work and 1 for xmas lunch. After that i went to see Avatar in 3D with Warwick at Indro. Were going to go to the 8:30 session but it was full so hung around shops for 40mins and went to the 9:20 session. Meant i didn't get to bed until like 1-1:30am so was a bit tired next morning.
Wednesday we didn't go bowling as normal as Warwick had to work.
Thursday was a relaxed day. Jen brought in some food for morning tea and i had my chocolate log. We finished up around 2pm which was cool.
Friday was Xmas so i headed to my sisters around 10am. We relaxed and had a nice lunch with my family and Michael's family. Ended up leaving around 5-6pm. Was a bit weird not seeing Amanda on Xmas day but was bound to happen eventually.
Saturday was Boxing Day and i went grocery shopping in morning. Had a BBQ planned in afternoon across road in park and was a bit worried about the rain. Everyone kept ringing asking if it was still on cause it was pouring down where they were. But it stayed pretty nice at my place. Headed across road and started setting up around 2pm. Everyone turned up over next hour or 2 and i cooked up heaps of food. Had about 12 people and was a nice afternoon.
At one point Amanda and i headed across the road and swapped Xmas presents. She got me a cool electro-magnetic project where you build a motor. Also gave me some fake snow. I gave her a nice red/black glass butterfly jewelery set (necklace, earings, bracelet) which she had commented on weeks earlier. She loved it.
Sunday i got picked up in morning and went with family to a friend's (from mini club) new house he built about 20-30mins north of Brisbane. It's a huge place on a huge block of land and was really nice. Stayed for morning tea and then i got dropped home. Headed over to parents in afternoon and went to BCF for the rest of the camping shopping. Got all new dinner set and re-filled gas bottle.
Monday was Boxing Day holiday and i did nothing all day. In the evening i build Amanda's Xmas gift which was fun.
Today is casual dress at work and rather quiet. Only about 1/3 of the company is here.
As i said, i have heaps to do in 3 days so better get back to it.
Next post might not be in a week as i will be away camping. I might do one before i leave. |
|
|
Avatar (3D) |
Posted by Mantis
2009-12-23 12:54 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
I just got back from seeing Avatar (in 3D) and i was impressed.
It really is a new step in film making. The detail of the computer graphics is staggering. The detail of the whole world James Cameron created is staggering.
The whole atmosphere of the movie was visually stunning. The story was pretty good too and Sam Worthington was very good.
The 3D wasn't over the top or gimmicky. It was just a subtle overlay of the movie to add a bit of depth. Took a bit of getting used to but after a short while you forgot you were wearing the glasses. The only confusing bit was when you tried to focus on something and it didn't work because it was not in focus in the movie.
I can't wait to see what this tech is used for next. The possibilities are endless. |
|
|
Xmas Week |
Posted by Mantis
2009-12-21 12:03 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
4 day week with Xmas on Friday. Hopefully be an ok week work wise.
Last week was ok, got heaps done and went fast.
Tuesday i paid off the last of my trip. Prices for day activities won't come out until early next year so for now i am done with trip planning and paying.
Wednesday we went and bowled for the first week of a Xmas break league. No teams and you bowl at any time during week for a few months. We are going to just bowl Wednesday night. I bowled okish, nothing great.
Thursday Amanda picked me up from work and we went to her place to grab some stuff then had dinner at my place.
Friday at 4:30 we had work drinks down the road at the Coro. Was ok. Left there around 10pm (there was about 5 of us left at that point) and just missed my train so went and got a burger at Maccas then got 10:30 train home.
Saturday i slept in a bit and relaxed around house for day. Emma came over around 3 for a few hours to chat. Have not seen her since a BBQ at start of year so was nice.
Sunday i went grocery shopping and then headed to parents. Sorted through camping gear and then went to Bunnings and bought a heap of stuff to be permanent camping gear so i don't have to borrow from my place or parents. Going to buy a few more things next weekend too. Hopefully after that i should ahve a few plastic containers with all camping gear we take each time.
This morning has been rather busy with the start of a new Interation. Gunna grab some lunch soon then get back into work. |
|
|
Quiet Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-12-14 11:16 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Not a lot to report.
Last week was pretty relaxing at work. Got heaps done.
Wednesday night Warwick and i went bowling as practise. We both did ok. The Phantom league starts this week so we will bowl Wednesday nights for it.
Didn't do much else at night during week.
Amanda came over for a short while Friday night.
Saturday i just did stuff at home.
Sunday i went grocery shopping and relaxed.
Didn't want to do too much as i am short on money currently in order to pay off my trip before end of month. Hopefully be paying last little bit tomorrow. Still need to pay for some accomodation and stuff but the majority of it will be sorted.
Got a new girl starting here today. Her name is Sarah and she seems pretty cool.
Doing ok in Helion on AstroEmpires. Not right at top but slowly moving up. I should get higher up this week as i work on fleet/tech mostly.
This week should be pretty easy going. We have our work Xmas drinks Friday afternoon which might be ok. Not planning on having a big one at it.
Ok, might go grab some lunch. |
|
|
Nearly Xmas |
Posted by Mantis
2009-12-7 11:17 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
This year has gone by so fast. Only like 2-3 weeks to xmas and just over 3 weeks to end of year.
Last week at work was kinda busy. Was last real week of development. For next few weeks it will be more tidying up and testing. I also finished up my 4 week stint of support last week so thats good.
Amanda came over for dinner Tuesday.
Wednesday was last week of bowling. We played 3 games but they were just for fun. I ended up using a 7pound pink ball and bowling with just fingers (no thumb). Played 1 normal game and top female and male got chocolates. Then we played a 8-no-tap (8, 9 and strike = strike) and top M/F got choclates. 3rdly we played a reverse score game where at the end of the game you reverse the numbers in your score and highest m/f wins. So everyone was trying to get a number ending in 9. I was trying to get 100 so i would have a score of 1 and come last but i got 104 so had 401. We also had prize giving before games as stated in last post.
Saturday i slept in until about 12. Then i went shopping for last xmas stuff and groceries. Also got 20m of blue rope lights so when i got home i tried to hang them. Unfortunatelty they were too curly and i needed them straighter so i stretched them out so they would be in the sun and straighten on Sunday.
Saturday night was our bowling dinner at the Bronco's Leagues Club. Warwick collected me on way and we got there around 6:30. Pretty much everyone was there (some with partners) except all of our friends (minus Warwick and i) were late as usual. But we had a big dinner (buffet all you can eat) and some beers and talked for a few hours.
A new AstroEmpires server was supposed to open at 1am Sunday but the galaxy Warwick and i were starting in wouldn't open until a while after. We estimated around 5-6am but it actually took waaay longer to filler lower galaxies and we didn't start playing until mid-afternoon. Kind annoying but this new server should be fun. I'll use what i learnt from last to get higher level faster.
This week should be ok. Work should go pretty fast and be not too hard. No bowling this week obviously but there is a Phantom league on soon where you bowl whenever you want. Will run just over xmas break and will keep me in practise.
Oh, on Sunday i also cleaned out a heap of big junk items from garage like the broken fridge, broken aircon, broken bike and broken chair. We have a curbside collection this week so i piled it on side of driveway. Came out this morning and 1/2 of it was gone. Not that it matters to me who takes it.
Anyways, might have some lunch and get back to work. |
|
|
Bowling Ends |
Posted by Mantis
2009-12-2 9:26 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
Just got back from the last week of this years league bowling with the Wanderers.
We just played 3 fun games and i played badly but had fun doing it. Spent most of the games playing with a tiny 7pound pink ball. :)
We had the awards at start of night and i won 3 things:
- $105 for our team (XXX) coming 2nd overall
- $30 for me doing well with high game + handicap
- $30 for team doing well with high game + handicap
Will improve on that next year and hopefully get my average up from 144 to closer to 150.
On Saturday we have our dinner at the Bronco's league's club. Should be ok. |
|
|
Fun Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-11-30 11:58 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Busy morning. But time for an update and lunch.
Last week was pretty busy. So much work to do and no time. This week will be the same, if not worse. Fun.
Tuesday Amanda came over for dinner with Prashin and I. Was a fun night.
Wednesday was the last night of competition bowling in league. We played badly but i think we still came 2nd overall for league. This Wednesday will be a fun 3 games and prizes and stuff.
Friday Amanda gave me a lift home and hungout for a short while.
Saturday i slept in a bit and then did some stuff around the house. Amanda came over around 2pm and we went to Chermside to do some shopping. Stopped at Office Works on way and i got myself an awesome new chair. Leather, high back, comfy, black/chrome. It rocks. Also got from Big W some xmas rope lights. Thought i was getting 1 blue and 1 red but ended up with 2 red. But decided to use both and get 2 blue.
Got back to my place and i hun the xmas lights on balcony. Then we went to Amandas and hung out there for a few hours before heading into the valley. Checked out a club we had been meaning to checkout and some friends of mine joined us. Ended up having a fun night and heading back to Amandas (via kabab shop and bus) around 2-3am.
We slept in Sunday and then got some breakfast from downstairs. Amanda dropped me home and i had another sleep then relaxed for afternoon/evening.
All in all, it was a fun weekend. except now i have to do my grocery shopping tonight after work. Oh well.
As i said, work is busy and this week will go fast i think. Time for lunch.
|
|
|
Poker Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-11-23 11:02 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Not many more weeks left of year. Time flies.
Last week was ok with work. Kept pretty busy with some Reports and 3rd level support.
Tuesday i had a roast dinner at my place with Mum, Dad, Megan and Michael. Was a good night.
Wednesday Amanda picked me up from work and we hungout for a bit at my place before bowling. At bowling i did ok and we won all 4 points. We were tied in 2nd place with another team at start of the night but are now 2 points ahead (they only got 2). Only 1 week left (this Wednesday) i believe so as long as we win at least 2 more than they do we should be ok. I worked out an improvement to my style that seems to work so hopefully i will do well.
I also paid the first part of my deposit for my trip (paid other bit Thursday). So everything is confirmed and booked and deposit paid for. Yay. Still need to sort out accomodation for Dubai/Singapore and the day tours for Dubai/Singapore/London but that should be sorted soon too. Now i just have to try and pay for it all by end of year to get discount. Should be possible.
Thursday i wokeup to find out we had been invaded in my online game. I lost a small bit but nothing big. Hopefully we will get them back in next week or so (much worse than they got us).
Saturday i relaxed at home most of day. Ended up having an afternoon nap so i'd be wide awake for poker.
Saturday night i had a poker game at home. Ended up being 5 of us and we played 2 games. I won the first one and came 4th in the 2nd game. We finished around midnight but i still was not tired. A friend called at about 2am to chat and i ended up getting to sleep around 4am.
Sunday i slept in until 11ish. Then i did my washing and vacuumed and generally cleaned/organised the house. Had a quick sunbake and then went grocery shopping. Relaxed for the evening catching up on some tasks.
Had our fortnightly interation meeting this morning. I am still on 3rd level support for 2 weeks and have heaps to do. We have so much work and no time so the next 2 weeks might not be that fun.
Had a heap of my books turn up last week. Have 7 of the 10 i ordered. The other 3 are pre-orders so won't come until next year i assume. Also got some poker card guards which are like poker chips except fancier and you use them to sit on cards to indicate you are still playing. I mainly got 3 for others but grabbed 2 for myself and got a 6th free.
Anyways, better get back to it (and maybe some lunch). |
|
|
Kuhn's Housewarming Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-11-16 11:02 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Start of another week. Hopefully a good one.
Last week went pretty fast. Started doing 3rd level support so that keeps you busy. Not the best role but i am only doing it for another 3 weeks.
Not much interesting stuff from last week. Spent a lot of time sorting out my UK/Europe trip for next year. Hopefully get that all booked today. Will be a load off my mind when it's all sorted. Then i can start filling in the few days i have in London, Dubai and Singapore with some places to go to.
Did okish at bowling. Nothing great. My ball got a big chip taken out of it too so they are repairing it. Hopefully be ready by this Wednesday.
Saturday i went over to dad's and helped him move furtiture out of lounge and rumpus rooms. They are getting new vinyl floors in next few days.
Got groceries on way home and then in evening i went to a friends housewarming. Was an ok evening and there was some people i had not seen in years so that was good.
Sunday i relaxed at home all day. Foxtel changed around their channels so i spent the afternoon checking out Discovery Turbo which is mainly car/bike related shows.
Having the family over Tuesday for a roast so that should be nice.
Ok, time for some more work and lunch. |
|
|
Family BBQ |
Posted by Mantis
2009-11-9 11:08 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Had a pretty relaxing weekend so more awake than usual for a Monday.
Last week was busy with work. Ran out of time with what i wanted to get done so will finish it off this week. Hoppefully in next day or 2.
Tuesday was Melbourne Cup so at 1pm we all had lunch here. Watched the race and drank some beers. Then had my chocolate log (which lasted less than 5mins even though i made heaps).
Did ok at bowling, nothing great.
Thursday night Amanda stopped by for a bit.
Saturday i relaxed at home and went out for a bit for groceries and some rope for new Hammocks.
Sunday i slept in and then relaxed for most of day. At 3pm i headed to my sisters place for a BBQ. Was first time that our parents met her boyfriends parents. Everyone got along great and we had a good dinner. Also gave dad his birthday present a few days early because Megan has to go away for work. We got him a car GPS so he and mum can use it on club runs and stuff.
Had our End of Iteration meeting this morning and starting today (for next 4 weeks) i am back on 3rd level support. Hopefully it stays quiet and i can do some actual work.
Anyways, might go have some lunch then get into it. |
|
|
Underwater World |
Posted by Mantis
2009-11-2 11:39 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Last week was ok-ish.
Amanda came over for dinner Tuesday night. I also had trouble sleeping that night and didn't really get much sleep.
Wednesday i wokeup tired and a bit flu-y so i ended up not going into work. Slept a bit and relaxed for day. By the afternoon after a sleep i was feeling much better. Went to bowling but did pretty crappy.
Saturday i went grocery shopping in morning. Had to grab stuff for making a chocolate log for Melbourne Cup (on Tuesday) but as usual, nobody was selling the Scalliwag biscuits i need. Called a heap of places and eventually foiund they had 12 packets at Woolies near me. So went and got 10 packets so i'd have some for next time.
After that i headed to Aarons place with laptop and file server. Hung around there all afternoon/evening and played some games.
Sunday morning mum, dad and Megan turned up and i drove us all up coast to Underwater World. Arrived in time to watch the Seal show and then mum (using the gift we gave her for her birthday) got a kiss from a seal and then got to go swimming with 3 of them. She enjoyed it and we enjoyed watching them play. After that we checked out the rest of the displays and then went to get an early dinner. Not much was open but we found somewhere and had some food.
Today is going ok i guess. For a Monday. I ordered 2 hammocks last week and they arrived today. Can't wait to use them on Fraser Island.
As i said, Melbourne Cup is tomorrow so it's really only a 1/2 day. Hopefully rest of week goes ok.
Ok, lunch time. |
|
|
SuperGP (more like SuperV8) Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-10-26 11:05 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Monday morning and lacking motivation to start work after meetings and cake.
Last week was good. Only a 3 day week but got heaps done.
Did ok at bowling on Wednesday.
Thursday i had the day off ready for SuperGP (replacement for Indy) but dad and i decided not to bother with the first day. So in morning i wandered into valley to RACQ and started planning my big trip for next year. Took about an hour to get a rough plan and she is doing up an itinery. Looks like it will be a decent strip and i can't wait.
After that Amanda came over and i helped her re-install her laptop with Vista. Then she dropped me into Southbank to meet up with dad, Megan and Michael for a tour of the new tunnel. It was a great tour with about 7 people in the group. First they told us about the tunnel and how it was made and it's progress. We then put on safety gear (boots, vests, hard hat, glasses) and got in a van and drove to northen entry (Bowen Hills). They have only just allowed the tour to go right through so that rocked. We drove along tunnel which is still under construction and at one point, directly under river and about 60m under it, we got out and walked through small tunney to other large tunnel (the one for cars going north). Then we got back in van and headed to other end and out and back to Southbank. It took about 2 hours and was really interesting. Tunnel won't be finished for another year or maybe a bit less.
Friday i drove down to parents and dad and i headed down to Surfers for SuperGP. Because we were in a street parade that night we took Fido and got free parking at southern end of track. Got there around 9am and walked along length of track stopping for races and checking out everything. Ended up at our seats for last few races.
After last race finished around 5 we headed back to car (via HJs for dinner) and took it up to roof of car park for the parade meeting. There was about 30 classic muscle cars there as well as some flatbed trucks with sounds systems. We waited an hour or so and at 7:30 the muscle cars headed off for a 45min slow parade around the middle of Surfers (around Cavill ave). After them was about 5-6 groups for different countries with a music trip followed by dancers. We went with the last group as part of the Brittish display and had dad and i leading a group of dancers doing Austin Powers dancing. Behind them was a classic double decker bus. They also had an Austin Powers guy running around. Was great fun and there were thousands of people watching us go past. Headed back to parents after that and i stayed the night there.
Saturday we headed off around 8am. Took both the clubman and the van this time for parade and parked in same place. Walked around circuit again and ended up in seats for afternoon. Had a decent radio this time as mum got one from near her work on Friday. Was another good day with good events. After last event at 5ish we headed to Cavill Ave for pizza and then went and got cars and ehaded to parade meeting spot. Few less muscle cars but same displays as Friday. Only difference was we had 2 mini's so dad went in front with van and i followed the dancers with Fido. No bus this time but we had a Brazil group following us at end. The Austin Powers impersonator was running around in front of me with dancers and numerous times he either hopped in my mini and shouted and waved from there or sat on the corner of the bonnet as i drove along. I had a lot of fun and it went really well. Headed back to parents and i stayed there again.
Sunday we had no parade at night so took Mazda and parked at normal place and got shuttle bus to track. Walked for a bit but spent most of the time in the seats. Also picked up a cheap shirt each as they were selling merchandice at 40% off and then on top of that a 2 for 1 deal. $20 each for a good shirt. Headed back to parents around 6pm and i headed home for a hot bath.
All in all, it was a good event. Was a bit worried when the A1GP cars pulled out a week ago but the organisers did a good job of filling the gap. Main 2 things they did was extend each of the 4 V8 races to 150km from 100km. Bordering on too long but they were good races, Quite enjoyable, especially the Sunday ones. They also got 15 or so classic race cars (most from Bowdens) and had them doing demo racing with either the original drivers or friends/sons driving. Most took it easy but a few were doing some demo battles. Was quite interesting. They also did a cool re-enactment of Jack Brabham's race where he pushed the car across finish line. They got him standing at line with checkered flag and had his grandson do a lap and push the car across the line. Everyone loved it.
The on track entertainment was pretty good again. Always fun to watch. The crowds were down a bit. Saturday had 50k compared to 80k last year. But was still busy and good atmosphere. The Aussie racers were great again and the Formula Fords were good. So were the Mini racers. Weather held off mostly with hot days and only 15mins of rain on Sunday afternoon. Will be interesting to see what happens next year but most likely i won't be in country when it's on.
Had an interation meeting this morning and then 2 birthday morning tea's and soon lunch and work. Hopefully this full week does not drag. |
|
|
Enjoyable Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-10-19 11:18 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Last week was ok, got heaps done Mon/Tue but then rest of week levelled off a bit. Still a productive week.
Did ok at bowling, we won all 3 games.
During the week they pulled down our back fence and extended the metal on on the place behind us. Removed all the vines too so i will get some small plants that require no upkeep to cover the bare dirt. They also levelled the sloping bit at the side of the courtyard which is good.
Finally did my tax during week too. Money will just go into trip savings.
Saturday was a busy day. Got picked up at 8am by Amanda (and her mum and Shane) and went to Bronco's leagues club for a poker comp that Maria and Shane were in. Had breaky there and then Amanda dropped me back home. I then went over to Canon Hill and did some shopping and got groceries. On way home Amanda called me and asked me to pickup Maria/Shane as she could not get there for a bit. Grabbed them and hungout at my place until Amanda came over.
We then headed to Amanda's place and had some pizza/pasta (and some beers). Then dropped them back at poker and Amanda and i went and collected Nathan and headed to her place. From there we went up road to a party. Was ok and fun people. After an hour or 2 there Maria said they were heading to Valley so we met them there and went to RGs for more drinks. I ended up heading home around midnight. Was a fun night.
Sunday i had nothing to do so i slept in and then relaxed all day watching movies and stuff.
This week will be ok. Only a 3 day week as i have Thursday/Friday off for SuperGP. Thursday i am meeting with RACQ lady to discuss my trip next year and then in afternoon i am doing a tour of the new road tunnel with Megan, Michael and dad.
Then Friday/Saturday/Sunday will be SuperGP down the coast. With a big screwup from organisers there will not be the A1GP cars so there might be some big gaps. Hopefully it's still a fun event.
Ok, lunch time. |
|
|
Relaxing Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-10-12 12:10 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
Not a lot to report.
Last week was ok work wise. Kept busy.
Tuesday Amanda picked me up from work and i helped her with an online job assessment for a good job she is going for. Well, she didn't really need my help but needed a more stable computer/internet than hers.
Wednesday at bowling i did ok. About my average. Maybe a bit above.
Thursday morning i had to get up a bit an hour early to drop Amanda and airport so she didn't have to park there.
Saturday i slept in a bit then headed to DFO near airport and got some running shoes (for treadmill) and 2 new work shirts. Got groceries on way home. Relaxed for afternoon/evening.
Sunday mum came over and we joined up with Mini Owners Club for a run my sister organised to a BBQ at Colleges Crossing. Rained in middle but we had shelter so was an ok event. Sunday afternoon Amanda got back to i grabbed her from airport.
New work interation starts today so got heaps of work to do. But first, lunch. |
|
|
Beach Camping Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-10-5 10:52 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Back at work after a 3 day weekend. Little drained from minor sunburn.
Last week was ok. Got a fair bit done at work.
Wednesday i got home and my new Treadmill had been delivered. Tried to carry it upstairs and the box was too heavy so i unpacked the box downstairs and managed to get it all upstairs. Started putting it together but had trouble with 1 bolt and ran out of time before i had to rush to bowling. Did pretty good at bowling though not as good as William who got 233 in his 3rd game. Well above his average. Went home and finished putting treadmill together. Been too busy to really try it yet but will tonight. Need to get some cheap jogging shoes before i go to hard on it. The plan is to use it for an hour each night as i watch tv.
Thursday night i got home, packed gear for camping and then headed to parents. Grabbed Mazda and went to Coles and got all the food/drinks we needed. Also grabbed some beer. Stayed there the night.
Friday i got up early and Warwick came over with 4WD (his old one) and trailer. Loaded up 2 tents and gear and filled the 2 big eskies and headed off around 8am. Picked up Shez from Kuraby station and headed to my place where we grabbed a few more things.
Headed north and stopped in for some breaky at BP/Maccas. Was a good drive (no traffic) and we got up there in around 2.5 hours. well, got mostly there in that time. About 20km from Rainbow Beach (in the middle of nowhere) we had to pull over because the diesel semll was worse and the back window was all smudgy. Apparently the fuel filter had cracked and we had leaked a heap of diesel all under 4wd and over eskies at front of trailer. Tried to fix it with tape and clamp but the presure is like 80psi so didn't work. Called RACQ but Warwick was not a member and they said it would cost $120 just to come see whats wrong (even though we told them we just needed a new filter, they could not even say if they would bring one or not). Ended up calling a local taxi and getting him to go to RACQ and get the filter and bring it to us. $11 for filter, $79 for taxi. So after a 1.5 hours delay we were on our way (worried about low fuel now). But we made it there around 1pm.
Grabbed more fuel, water, ice and our permit and headed to find a campsite. Got a nice one right on beach at Dorrigo site. Setup big tent and medium tent and gear and later after Matt and Kelywn called to say they where out front (and bogged in sand). Went and helped them (grabbed camper trailer with 4wd and unbogged them and they parked out front) and took trailer to site. They had a fold out camping over top of 2 dirt bikes but for various reasons (road tyres and lack of keys we didn't use the bikes).
We cooked up steak/spuds/carrots/pasta for dinner and sat around talking. Everyone went to bed except Warwick and I who waited up for Andy to arrive with Stephen and Steven. They got to site around 11pm and managed to get bogged a bit. But car was off road so left it there for night. Got to bed just after 12.
Saturday i slept in until 7am and then started cooking breaky (bacon/eggs/toast). Everyone else got up and after breaky and relaxing we went and played some beach cricket and had a swim. Also moved Andy's car from sand area to grassed area. Then in afternoon we went for a beach drive to Rainbow Beach for some stuff and a fresh water shower. Relaxed for evening and Warwick cooked dinner (same as night before). Talked and drank and got to bed lateish. Some of the guys also went and tried some night fishing.
Sunday i got up around 7am again and started breaky. Then a 1-2 hours later i cooked a heap of pancakes so everyone was full/stuffed. We headed into town again for water/snacks and the guys tried fishing a bit again. Had sausages on bread mid afternoon and then started packing up. The wind was really blowing so was tricky but we got it all packed and headed off around 4pm (after a fun trailer top ride to take garbage to bin).
Dropped Shez at airport because that was easiest place for Lui to collect him and Warwick and i headed to parents. Expected traffic but made great time. Unloaded gear and i did washing up of plates and pots/pans. Loaded up mini and headed home around 8-9pm. Had a bath and got to bed around 11pm.
This morning has been ok. Bit tired after weekend. Another eBay package arrived of a iPhone case with battery backup. Will be good for when i travel.
This week should be ok. Heaps to do. Might have lunch and then get to it.
|
|
|
Sounds of Spring Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-9-28 10:52 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Monday morning and i am not too sleepy. Plus only a 4 day week so yay.
Last week was ok. Got a fair bit done at work.
Tuesday night Andy came over to help me get the data off the last drive in my old file server. I think we managed to get most of it but it took all night. Now i still have to get it from the 2nd drive we copied to in the old server to the new server. Tried 1 way Wednesday night but no luck so will try another way tonight.
Wednesday was bowling and i did pretty good. 1 crap game but other 2 were good. We also had a huge dust storn here all day. Could not see across the river at one point. Was freaky.
Friday just before 5pm i wandered to other side of office and they were drinking so i grabbed a beer. Was 1/2 way through when Kim said we needed to leave now to get our normal train so i skulled rest of beer and we ran for train. Unfortunately we just missed it and because there are not many connecting trains for her to get to Beenleigh station she wanted to jog to Roma St to make it in time for a train. For some reason i decided to join her so we jogged/walked fast from Milton to Roma St (10-15mins). On way i realised i was planning on getting off in city and looking around shops anyways so when we got to Roma St i continued walking into city. Looked at a few shops then got train home.
Saturday was Sounds of Spring music festival. Been looking forward to it for ages. Got up around 8-9am and got ready then headed over to pickup Amanda. She slept through alarm so was running late but we got back to my place around 10:30 and cooked up soem bacon/eggs. We then wandered down road to RNA showgrounds and met up with Prashin.
We headed to one of the stages and saw the last few songs of Jerrico (seemed ok). Then swapped to other stage there and watched MM9 (they were pretty good, like them). After that we swapped between stages and saw 3-4 different bands. Also got some lunch (i had a dagwood dog).
We then headed to the main stage and saw Shihad. They were good but my stomach was feeling funny so i went and grabbed some more water and decided to sit in the stands instead of returning to the crowd in front of the stage. Got a message from Amanda asking where i was soon after and i said i was just getting some fresh air. Apparently though that message never sent and i never got the 10 or so messages from her as they got worried about where i was. I was feeling better during Frenzal Rhomb so i wandered back towards stage, thats when i got all the msised messages/calls. Ended up meeting up with them and explaining i was fine and that i had replied but they never got that. All that worry for no reason but it was ok. We laughed about it.
Headed to a stage and saw Something With Numbers before ehading back to main stage for The Panics (we sat it the stands because our feet were a bit sore by then). We then headed over and saw Pez which was pretty good. After that we went back to main stage for The Butterfly Effect. This was the main reason i wanted to go to Sounds of Spring and it was worth it. they were awesome and i had a great time. Was kinda freaky though because another smaller dust storm arrived and everything glowed in distance.
Lastly we headed over and saw some Blue King Brown, then Butterfingers, then a bit of Josh Pyke before we headed off around 10:30. Prashin dropped Amanda home and i had an earlier-ish night.
I had an awesome day. Listened to some great bands, saw The Butterfly Effect live and got some sun.
Woke up Sunday expecting sore legs/feet but they were fine. Think my recent exercising helped. Watched some shows that have returned and then did my washing and went grocery shopping. Relaxed in afternoon/evening.
This morning Amanda picked me up and we went and collected her car and returned the hire car.
This week should go fast with heaps to do. Plus i have Friday for camping trip which should be awesome.
Ok, work/lunch time. |
|
|
Relaxing Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-9-21 11:59 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Not a lot to report this time.
Last week went fast. Just general work. Had a new guy (Matthew) start Monday to help out with support.
Monday afternoon was a bit of excitement, but not in a good way. Amanda called me to say she had crashed her car. Nothing major and she was fine, but means she has a loan Tiida for a week or 2.
Didn't do that great at bowling, but not that terrible. Only slightly under average overall.
Thursday Amanda picked me up (in loan car) from work and dropped me home. She wanted to grab some latest eps to watch that night. I then went over to Southbank and had dinner/drinks with my family, Michael and Aunty I (who was in town for a week). Was nice.
Saturday i did a lot around the house and went over to parents and piled up camping gear. Got groceries on way home.
Sunday was a day of relaxing. Also tried to grab last of the stuff off old file server but with the HDD dying it didn't work. Andy is coming over Tuesday night to help me try another way.
This week should be ok. Looking forward to Saturday and the Sounds of Spring music festival. Also looking forward to camping in 2 weeks.
Ok, lunch and work time. |
|
|
Mini Muster Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-9-14 11:06 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Here we are, Monday morning and i want to go home and sleep.
Last week was good. Work went pretty fast with getting heaps done. Plus i spent 1/2 the week working on a new design for our company website. Really happy with how it's looking.
Amanda came over Monday night for a few hours.
Wednesday night at bowling i did okish. About my average.
Friday Amanda picked me up from work. We were going to go checkout spot for Riverfire but could not be bothered so we just went back to my place and hungout for a bit. She headed off and soon after people arrived for a poker night. Ended up being only 4 of us but we had fine and finished up around 11:30. I came 2nd.
Saturday i slept in a small bit and then washed my car. Then went grocery shopping and did washing. I then headed over to Indro for lunch and saw District 9. I quite enjoyed it and was glad they didn't go with any known actors and didn't just make an action movie. Was very similar feel to the short it was based on (which i liked when i saw it a few years ago). Good to see people can still make interesting movies.
Saturday night i walked over to a lookout on New Farm side of Story Bridge. Got there around 6pm and it was already packed, but for good spots for Riverfire people get to places at like 10am. Met up with Amanda, her mum (who srrived in town for a few days on Saturday), and some friends (of Amanda and her mum). I also ran into Shez at one point. The fireworks were good and we had a good view. After that we walked to New Farm and hungout at Amanda's place with a few drinks and some pizza. Rita/Fillip came over too which was cool. I headed off from there and walked home (30mins or so) and got to bed around 12:30am.
Sunday i wokeup at 5am and had a shower and headed off to Muster at 5:30am. Got there just before 6am and managed to beat mum/dad (Megan beat me though). I was there to help dad with parking and ended up standing on the road holding a sign and directing people into the entrance. Did that for 2.5 hours while hearing the same pizza/chicken suit jokes over and over. But it was fun and i got to see the cars arrive. After that i ended up directing cars further in for an hour or so.
Then dad and i did the Rocker Cover racing at about 11am which went well. My new racer is not super fast but it goes straight and i came in top 5-6 out of 15 or so. After that dad and i took a break from running stuff and checked out the cars. Ended up being about 300 mini's which was great. I headed off early afternoon but it was a good Muster.
Went home and relaxed for a bit before Amanda and her mum picked me up and we went over to the Fox Hotel with some friends for a $2 steak. Was a nice meal and had a good time. Was a bit tired though. headed off around 7pm and they dropped me home. Ended up falling asleep at like 10pm which is early for me.
Work this week should be ok. Might have some lunch and get back to it. |
|
|
Fathers Day Weekend |
Posted by Mantis
2009-9-7 11:11 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Busy morning but here we go.
Last week was good. Was just working thorugh my current list of tasks and getting a fair bit done.
Wednesday at bowling i did ok in first game but crapish in other 2. But i also won a $20 Myers voucher in the league raffle and 3 free games in the lane draw.
Thursday i had the day off and used it to get a bunch of stuff done around the house. Amanda is currently off from work due to gettting some tests done so we ended up catching up for lunch instead of her coming over Thursday night for dinner as we had planned.
Friday my new clock arrived. It's exactly the same as the old Reverse one in lounge that has packed up. I never realised how much i looked at it, especially in morning before work.
Saturday i slept in a fair bit and then relaxed for afternoon. Amanda was in area so stopped by for a quick visit.
Sunday i was up earlyish and went grocery shopping. Then i headed down to parents just after lunch. Masked up and painted the last parts of the Rocker Cover Racer. Pretty happy with how it turned out. After that i went to Freedom with mum for a bit and then Megan came over and we had a ncie family dinner to celebrate Fathers Day.
This morning has gone pretty fast. I was designing a new website so that always makes the time just disappear.
I am still copying files from old file server to new one. Done most of it but i think the last few will be annoying because the drive they are on might be the one that is dying.
This week should be ok and go pretty fast. Having another Poker night Friday and then we have the Mini Muster on Sunday. Riverfire is Saturday night but not sure what i am doing for it.
Anyways, might grab some lunch soon and then get back to the big list of things i need to look at today. |
|
|
Shuffle up and NAS |
Posted by Mantis
2009-8-31 10:59 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
Last week went pretty fast for the most part but was an ok week.
Work was fine. Got a bit done.
Bowling Wednesday was ok. Didn't do that great but had fun. Looks like William might be back bowling and filling one of the spare spots on another team.
Friday during the day i spent some money (too much but oh well, it was kinda needed) on a new file server. My current one which is a big case with 10 drives in it had been acting up a bit the last week and i was worried about all my data. So i picked up a NAS (network storage box) and 4 1.5TB drives. I have raided it so i get only 4.5TB space but won't lose anything if 1 drive dies.
Friday night was the first Poker night with my new table. Was a bit worried because a lot of people were to make it but we ended up with 7 players, 1 watching and the watchers daughter watching for a bit then sleeping upstairs until end of night. Stephen and a friend (Luke) turned up around 7pm and then Aaron/Rachel/Ty/William came soon after. David and Warwick were a bit late but after we got pizza and ate we didn't start too late. Around 8-8:30pm. Played a $20 game which went for 2-3 hours and was pretty even for most of it. I ended up coming 3rd so got my $20 back. It was still earlyish so we decided to play another $20 game. Unfortunately i didn't do too well in that one and went out on the 2nd hand. I should have listened to my brain which told me exactly what he had (and turned out to be right) but eh, i still had fun rest of game dealing and joking/chatting. We finished up around 1:30am and everyone headed off.
Saturday i slept in a small bit and then headed down to Springwood just after lunch and got some spray paint for the Rocker Cover racer dad and i are building. Unfortunately there was not a decent green but i found 2 ok ones. Went to parents and painted the racer with 1. Turned out darker than i wanted but i figure i can mask parts like the wings off and use the lighter one and it might look ok.
Saturday night i tagged along with Amanda to a birthday dinner with a guy we both know. Was an ok night and allowed Amanda and i to do our weekly catchup dinner because she was not able to come over during week as usual.
Sunday i spent a lot of the day setting up the new file server. Was easy to setup but before you can use it it has to sync up the RAIDed drives and that is still running after nearly 20 hours. It should be finished by the time i get home and then i can start the long job (probably over next week) of copying stuff across from old server.
Also went grocery shopping Sunday at lunchtime and did my weekend chores.
Sunday night i went to the movies with Andy and Warwick and saw Inglorious Basterds. I enjoyed it but it was quite shocking in what happens and what they actually show. Pretty sure it's R rated. I should have expected it from Tarantino. Certainly not for the faint hearted.
Unfortunately i left my lights on during movie so my car battery was flat when i went to leave. Waited 40mins for RACQ who started me up and i drove home. Will fully charge it tonight for a day or 2. Been many many years since i last did that and first time in Mini i think.
Anyways, nearly lunchtime and got lots to do today. This week will probably go pretty fast. |
|
|
Hopefully a Good Start |
Posted by Mantis
2009-8-24 11:19 AM |
|
|
|
|
|
As of today i am trying to be more active when i am at home. Mainly exercise (morning and after work) and reading (have not done much in last few years). I think both will help me be more focused and active in general. Also will get back into Project Magnus as i have been neglecting that too and want to make more progress on it.
My plan (for at least this week to see how it goes) is to do 20mins exercise in morning again. And at least 30 in afternoon (hopefully closer to an hour). Then after dinner to do some PM work and then do an hour of reading before sleep. Now that it's not so cold in morning/evening i think the exercise/PM work will be a lot easier to keep doing.
Anyways, we will see in a week how it goes.
Last week at work was good. Went pretty fast with just working through a list of tasks to do. Getting heaps done so it's all good.
Amanda came over for dinner Tuesday night and i did not that great at bowling Wednesday night.
Friday at 4pm we had work drinks here and i left that around 8-9.
Saturday i just did stuff around the house and relaxed. Also spent an hour or 2 cutting vines off the back fence.
Sunday i went out for a bit to do some shopping and get groceries and then read for a bit at night. Started re-reading The Wheel of Time series. There are 12 books out currently and the 13th (and final, was planned last book but author died 1/2 through, luckily he left lots of notes because he knew he was dying) will be out soon. I read up to book 7 years ago but wanted to wait until it was finished before starting again.
Work should be ok this week.
Thinking of having a poker night this Friday. Will see who is keen.
Anyways, work and lunch time. |
|
|
Kitty-sitting Ends |
Posted by Mantis
2009-8-17 1:33 PM |
|
|
|
|
|
Ok, bit late in this post but most of the morning was taken up with our Fortnightly Interation meeting.
Last week was a bit weird because i was at my sisters place looking after Meavy. But the work week was good. Got heaps done and it went fast.
Wednesday was Ekka holiday. Slept in a bit (except for getting up at 6am for 5mins to organise something on my online game). In morning i ended up playing the game and being involved in a big battle which was fun. In afternoon i drove to my place (in sisters mini), grabbed Fido (swapped with dad last week so he could fix brakes) and drove to dad's place. Hungout there all afternoon and then drove my mini to bowling where i did ok. then drove my mini to my place, swapped back to sisters mini and drove back to her place.
Didn't do much else in evenings the rest of the week. Watched some TV and played with Meavy.
Saturday i was going to sleep in but Amanda needed help moving into a new place (only a few minutes away and with a friend of ours). So most of Saturday was spent helping her and 2 others move her furniture into new place in middle of New Farm. Nice place.
Saturday night i drove to my place and then got a cab over to Newstead to a housewarming. Caught up with some old friends which was cool and later in night we wandered into Valley to the Fringe Bar. Was a good night and i headed off back to my place around 2-3am. Had only been drinking some beer and had stopped earlier so i ended up driving back to Megans (had planned to crash at my place if i got drunk).
Slept in Sunday and relaxed for the day. Dropped my stuff back at my place in afternoon and then watched a DVD with MEavy before getting a train home at 7pm.
Sister arrived home late last night so no more kitten-sittin | |